Business

Derbyshire charity champions local heroes for King’s Honours list

Derbyshire Voluntary Action is highlighting individuals in our area for their outstanding contribution to our communities.

In a testament to the unsung heroes shaping the heart of Derbyshire’s communities, DVA has launched a campaign to raise further awareness of the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector with a new series focusing on the efforts and impact carried out by groups and organisations in our communities.

The Derbyshire charity is hoping that highlighting their exceptional strength and success will encourage them to be nominated for the prestigious King’s Honours List.

DVA says it works alongside, sees, and recognises the tireless efforts of those who often work behind the scenes, shaping positive change.

The King’s Honours List is platform that celebrates their extraordinary contributions, and that sees fewer nominations in Derbyshire than across the rest of the country, something that DVA is eager to change.

DVA, in its commitment to community recognition, seeks to champion people from these groups to inspire a ripple effect of appreciation for the entire VCSE sector.

Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Liz Fothergill commented: “I am immensely proud and often awed as I hear of amazing and sustained achievements brought about by the hard work, selflessness, and commitment to their communities of individuals from across the whole city and county.

“I would like to see more of our remarkable Derbyshire individuals recognised and celebrated with a national honour – so I would encourage you all to make a nomination when you witness true excellence and a passion to improve the lives of others.”

More information about nomination process, and how to put someone forward can be found on the www.gov.uk/honours page.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Community Capacity Conference Nov 23 DVA

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Partnership to encourage more car-free journeys into the Peak District

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire has announced a new Strategic Partnership with bus operator Stagecoach as part of its ongoing mission to encourage visitors to go ‘car-free’ when visiting the destination.

The organisations will work together to highlight the benefits of travelling by bus and promote car-free days out – giving visitors a practical way to save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and do their bit to protect local landscapes at the same time.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s Strategic Partners are an influential network of key tourism-related businesses who share its core aims to grow the value of the area’s visitor economy and build a brighter, more sustainable future.

Through the new Strategic Partnership, Stagecoach is highlighting its commitment to working alongside the destination’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) to champion the long-term success of the area’s tourism industry and the communities it supports.

Stagecoach is Britain’s largest bus operator and its network incorporates some of the most popular visitor spots in the Peak District and Derbyshire. Local services include the recently-extended X17 which runs from Barnsley to Wirksworth via Sheffield, Chesterfield and Matlock, and the 65 which runs from Sheffield to Buxton via Tideswell – and is often called ‘one of the most scenic bus routes in Britain’.

Stagecoach also operates the Peak Sightseer hop-on, hop-off service which connects the historic market towns of Bakewell and Chesterfield with key tourist attractions including Chatsworth and Hassop Station for visiting the Monsal Trail.

The Strategic Partnership strengthens Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s long-term mission to encourage more visitors to choose sustainable transport methods, and the organisations will work together to produce ‘car-free’ content and itineraries that encourage both tourists and residents to enjoy all the area has to offer without increasing pollution and congestion in towns, villages and the countryside.

The news follows the launch of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s Sustainable Tourism Action Plan, which has been produced in partnership with local stakeholders including the Peak District National Park Authority and the National Forest and sets out the destination’s vision to lead the way in green tourism, active travel and transport connectivity.

Tourism contributed £2.59bn to the Peak District and Derbyshire’s economy in 2022, supporting thousands of jobs and driving prosperity in local communities.

Matt Kitchin, Managing Director of Stagecoach Yorkshire, says: “We are really excited to be partnering with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to promote bus travel to the fantastic tourist attractions in the area, reducing the pressure caused by cars and congestion on the local environment.

“Buses in our network such as the Peak Sightseer open top bus, the X17 and the 65 make visiting the Peak District more accessible and affordable and have proven to boost the local economy through an increased number of tourists.

“We look forward to working with the team at Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to encourage more people to opt for sustainable methods of travel and enjoy a car-free day out in the countryside.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “We are delighted to announce our Strategic Partnership with Stagecoach, a company that shares our commitment to encouraging car-free travel for visitors and residents alike.

“Our Strategic Partners are a core network of organisations who want to support us in our role as one of England’s leading LVEPs, growing the value of the county’s tourism sector in a sustainable way.

“Stagecoach’s buses offer an easy and accessible way to reach and enjoy the historic landmarks of our destination and the glorious scenery of Britain’s original National Park. As well as supporting the strategic aims highlighted in our Sustainable Tourism Action Plan, partnerships such as this will help to lessen the impact of cars on fragile locations, reducing congestion and pollution and helping us develop more sustainable travel choices for those who live, work and visit here.”

Stagecoach joins existing Strategic Partners Northern, Breedon Group, the Institute of Quarrying and Severn Trent.

Businesses interested in becoming a Strategic Partner of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire should contact Lisa Woolhouse, Membership & Sales Manager, at lisa.woolhouse@visitpeakdistrict.com.

Details of Stagecoach services across the Peak District and Derbyshire can be found at: www.stagecoachbus.com.

Chesterfield is the perfect base to explore the Peak District and Derbyshire. Find out more about visiting our town here.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Matt Kitchin, Managing Director of Stagecoach Yorkshire

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New radio studio forms part of expansion for Chesterfield record store

A record store in Chesterfield has announced an exciting expansion, which includes a new independent radio station for local DJs to follow their passion for music.

Vanishing Point Records, based in Theatre Yard in the town centre, has become a popular spot for music lovers selling pre-loved vinyl records across many genres.

The businesses, which began in 2017 had previously expanded in 2019. However in 2023, the shop took up a neighbouring unit which enabled further growth.

Acquiring the extra space has given Vanishing Point Records the opportunity to showcase its huge 12″ single collection, which is thought to be one of the biggest in the East Midlands with a collection of around 5000. On top of this, the store has also been able to build a new radio studio.

The studio is now a home for Radio Free Matlock, which is a station that Vanishing Point Owner, Corey Lavender was already heavily involved in prior to the store’s expansion.

Corey takes up the story, commenting: “On our second ever day of trading I met a guy who ran an ultra local radio station in Matlock, named “Radio Free Smedley Street”. From that day onwards I got involved with the station, firstly as a listener and then when that guy left the station, I along with a few of the other DJs decided to take over the running of it.

“We renamed it Radio Free Matlock (RFM for short) and we started recruiting DJs wherever we could find them. I met loads of our DJs when they came into the store for a browse. They left with or without a vinyl record but also a radio show!

“So, when I took on the extra unit in Theatre Yard It was always my intention that part of it would be devoted to some ‘radio’ space. Building this was daunting anyway, I had zero experience in building radio studios, but we were doing it on zero budget, just with stuff we had in our various home studios.

Vanishing point radio studio

“Luckily I could call on my RFM colleagues Ash Bird and Lucie De Lacy to help! By September 2023 we had a set up in the studio that we liked. We had two vinyl decks for proper DJs to come and play a set, a mixing desk with 4 mics hooked up, a CD player and the ability to input from a laptop. All held together with a old (ish) Mac kindly donated by Lucie.”

“In October our debut ‘LIVE’ radio show was broadcast, it was called The Monthly Jam hosted by Ash and Lucie and we had a special guest Emzae, a pop artist from Derby  who came in for a chat and to sign copies of her latest album.

“Since then we have done weekly live radio shows on Saturday afternoons from 12 till 2pm with a rotation of shows and DJs, and they are brilliant. People come in to watch the shows, to listen to the shows and customers quite often get involved too, and every single one has been brilliant with the vibe on Saturdays being fantastic.”

Corey added that the success of the new radio station has also led to further success for Vanishing Point Records in terms of sales. All five of its best ever trading months have come since the expansion and the studio addition.

Speaking of his love for owning a business in Chesterfield, he added: “Having grown up in Chesterfield, and loving the town (and the football club) It is a dream to be able to do my favorite thing in my favorite place. It’s also a privilege to have so many fellow indie traders in town too, who are on hand to help out with advice and encouragement.

“We really do have a great opportunity to make ourselves successful in this new era of destination shopping. The internet has changed everything  but we have loads of unique shops, cafes and bars who might not be able to spend a ton on advertising to let you know they’re there like the old major chains can. But if anyone hasn’t been to town for a while, maybe go and you might just find your new favorite place.”

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield.

Vanishing Point

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Work begins on £3.7m mental health ward refurbishment in Walton

Refurbishment works have started at Walton Hospital in Chesterfield, to create a dedicated ward for older adults with functional mental health issues in Derbyshire.

Chesterfield Property and Construction Group member, Stepnell is carrying out the works. Previously vacant, the £3.7 million refurbishment of Bluebell Ward provides capacity for the relocation of patients from Pleasley Ward at the Hartington Unit on the Chesterfield Royal Hospital site, three miles across the town.

Delivering via the Procure Partnerships Framework (PPF) for Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (DHCFT), the project will create a 12-bedroom older adult mental health facility with single ensuite rooms. The ward is for functional older adults, and once completed, the functional and organic older adult services will be co-located in the same building.

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “The refurbishment of Bluebell Ward signifies the latest project that we are completing for an NHS Foundation Trust, and we are proud of our long-standing reputation for delivering successful healthcare projects across the country using our local expertise. We are helping to enhance the offering of locally accessible specialist services, as part of the NHS Long Term Plan.”

Tom Woolley, key account manager for the east at Procure Partnerships Framework, added: “Procure Partnerships Framework is delighted to see work is underway on the refurbishment of Bluebell Ward for Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Our partners are experts in healthcare schemes and have worked incredibly hard in the planning stages to ensure the facility is set to become a welcoming, safe and sustainable environment for the patients of Bluebell Ward. We are excited to see this scheme come to life and the long-lasting benefit it will bring to the community of Chesterfield.”

Set to complete this July, the refurbishment adapts the existing structure of Bluebell Ward to achieve a fit-for-purpose design that follows the same building principles for new mental health units, completing under the Making Room for Dignity programme.

Stepnell is undertaking the works with multi-disciplinary construction consultancy EDGE. Charlotte Dennish, cost manager at EDGE, said: “Our healthcare specialist team is proud to be working alongside Stepnell to deliver an environment that promotes wellbeing and safety, improving the patient experience. EDGE is delighted to be delivering Bluebell Ward as part of the wider Making Room for Dignity programme, ensuring consistent quality standards and patient environments.

“By working with ex-service user Nick Richards on the project, we’ve been able to learn from his lived experience and ensure that the space is optimised to support older adults with mental health challenges, while also providing a welcoming environment for all who will use the service.”

The project is part of the government’s Dormitory Eradication Programme, which DHCFT names the ‘Making Room for Dignity’ programme, to eradicate dormitory accommodation in mental health facilities, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate safety, privacy and dignity to treat mental illnesses.

Andy Harrison, senior responsible owner at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to have commenced the work to our refurbished ward at Walton Hospital for the older adults of Derbyshire who require inpatient support for functional mental health needs. Not only will the co-location with organic mental health services mean access to specialist older people clinicians but also a safer ward environment with increased privacy and dignity.”

Stepnell supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

stepnell walton hospital plans

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Entries now open for this year’s Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards

The parent company of Chesterfield’s Derbyshire Times, National World is set to celebrate apprentices across our region later this year, by hosting the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2024.

The company’s journey with the apprenticeship awards began in 2017, driven by the desire to spotlight the success stories emerging from apprenticeship programs. National World aims to showcase not only the achievements of apprentices but also the invaluable support from their employers, mentors, and training providers.

Apprenticeships provide a unique approach to education, training, and career development. The hands-on learning experience, coupled with the opportunity to earn while you learn, makes apprenticeships a dynamic pathway for individuals exploring diverse industries, from traditional trades to cutting-edge fields like technology and healthcare.

The program often serves as a gateway to full-time employment in industries that apprentices may not have previously considered.

Completing an apprenticeship frequently leads to industry-recognised certifications, enhancing individuals’ credibility and employability and facilitating smoother transitions into different roles or advancements within their chosen fields.

Nominations are open to apprentices, employers, colleges, training providers, and proud loved ones. Specific categories are dedicated to employers and mentors, allowing businesses to showcase their teams and trainers.

The grand announcement of winners will take place at the live event on Thursday, 3rd October 2024, held at The Village Hotel, Nottingham. Register by visiting www.dnapprenticeshipawards.co.uk before the closing date of 6pm on Wednesday, July 31st.

Derbyshire Times editor and Destination Chesterfield board member, Phil Bramley said: “Local apprentices are not only carving out great careers for themselves, but also driving innovation and success at the businesses they’re working with.

“These awards are a fantastic way to showcase the work they do and the success stories they are part of.

“If you’re an apprentice – or business or education provider that works with one – why not enter the awards and put our great local apprenticeships in the spotlight?”

Award Categories:

  • SME Employer of the Year: Open to businesses, with up to 249 employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.
  • Large Employer of the Year, sponsored by East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network: Open to businesses, with 250+ employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.
  • Diversity and Inclusion Programme, sponsored by Auto Windscreens: Open to all employers that run an apprenticeship programme which actively encourages diversity and inclusion.
  • Mentor of the Year: This category is for an individual who has encouraged and inspired apprentices throughout their training programme. Mentors can be the line manager, a training provider or someone that the apprentice works with who has greatly contributed to the individual’s development
  • Intermediate Apprentice of the Year: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 2 qualification (equivalent to GCSE passes at grades 4–9). Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023
  • Advanced Apprentice of the Year: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 3 qualification (equivalent to A Level Pass). Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023.
  • Higher Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Nottingham Trent University: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 4 or 5 qualification. Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023
  • Degree Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by University of Nottingham: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 6 or above qualification. Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023.
  • Professional Services Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Professional Services sector.
  • Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Health or Public Service Sector.
  • Construction Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Construction.
  • Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Engineering or Manufacturing sectors
  • Technology and Digital Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Technology and Digital Sectors.
  • Training Provider of the Year: Open to colleges, organisations or businesses that provide the training element of an apprenticeship programme to a business or organisation.

The Derbyshire Times supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Apprentice 873x466

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Chesterfield business owner named amongst the UK’s top 100 female entrepreneurs

Chesterfield business owner, Lucinda White has been crowned one of the UK’s most impressive female entrepreneurs by Small Business Britain’s ‘f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100’ campaign.

Lucinda, who founded Pure Awards, a boutique ward writing and content agency in 2005 is being profiled among 100 inspirational female entrepreneurs from across the country, as part of the campaign to celebrate the multi-achievements of women running businesses in the UK today.

From AI companies to female-run tradeswoman platforms and sustainable fashion designers, the f:Entrepreneur ‘#IAlso100’ line-up particularly showcases trailblazing female founders who lead purpose-driven businesses alongside a roster of other responsibilities, such as volunteering, mentoring and community support.

Lucinda was also called out for her success as a winning award writer, enabling businesses and entrepreneurs (male and female) throughout the UK to benefit from hundreds of finalist positions and wins using her exceptional writing skills. She has also helped charities raise over £750,000 for good causes through grant applications and created content to showcase local and national brands. All of this whilst running a busy home and bringing up her two daughters with husband Matt.

On being featured in the #ialso100 lineup, Lucinda said: “I am thrilled to be recognized in this award and campaign for 2024. For the last three years I have had a client feature in the #IAlso 100 so it is really wonderful to be on the list for this year too. I am excited to get to know all the other wonderful female entrepreneurs in this community as the year unfolds. 2024 is going to be a fantastic year!”.

Launched in 2017 by Small Business Britain – the leading champion of small businesses in the UK – the f:Entrepreneur campaign aims to raise greater awareness of the impact of incredible female business owners across the country, and help provide inspiration and role models to the wider small business community.

The campaign offers a host of events, training, and networking opportunities to boost skills, capability, and confidence.

“Congratulations to Lucinda White and each of the phenomenal women featured in this year’s #IAlso100,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain.

“It is so important that we call out the incredible contribution of women running businesses across the UK. As well as growing economic prosperity across the UK, they are also having a tremendous, wider positive impact on local communities too. Despite all of the challenges of recent times, it is fantastic to see female entrepreneurship continuing to grow and flourish in the UK, and we must do all we can to encourage and build this further.”

To see the full line-up of the 100 women featured in this year’s f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100 campaign visit https://f-entrepreneur.com/ialso-100-2024/

Lucinda - ialso Photo

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Chesterfield businesses urged to raise awareness of apprenticeships with local school visits

Firms in Chesterfield are urged to get involved in an initiative which aims to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities in the area.

D2N2 Careers Hub and The Early Talent Consultancy are calling on local employers in Chesterfield to join the ‘Get In 2 Apprenticeships’ initiative. This collaborative effort aims to engage year 9 students at schools across the region, with students gaining valuable advice from the employers.

Participating employers will conduct on-site sessions in schools, lasting up to 3 hours, and businesses will also have a chance to showcase their apprenticeship programmes and tap into future talent, as well as inspiring the next generation of our workforce.

To be eligible, employers will have an established apprenticeship programme within the D2N2 region and be able to support with the delivery of the sessions.

Helen Eleftheriou, spokesperson for the Early Talent Consultancy commented: “Apprenticeships are available in over 600 occupations in a wide range of industries ranging from entry level at 16 years old up to and including degree level. Over 90% of apprentices stay with their employer once qualified and many work their way up in the organisation.

“It’s an opportunity for employers to promote their apprenticeship programmes and tap into future talent. They’ll be able to share insights into their industry to students who may not be aware. Inspire the future workforce and boost their community impact.

“By investing in young people, businesses are nurturing a pool of talent with the skills their business needs now and in the future. Young people also bring a fresh perspective to a business as they see the world in a different way, bringing creative solutions and insights. Young people are typically more accustomed to emerging trends and technologies.

“Their familiarity with the digital landscape is invaluable in ensuring businesses are at the forefront of the ever changing digital world. Finally, investing in young people isn’t just about business, it’s about contributing to a business’s local community.”

Dates confirmed for businesses to visit schools in Chesterfield:

  • Wednesday, 24th April
  • Monday, 29th April
  • Monday, 20th May
  • Tuesday, 2nd July

Any employers who are interested in taking part should contact helen@theearlytalentconsultancy.com or hubs@d2n2lep.org or read more about it here.

College student skills training apprenticeships

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Full steam ahead for rail training and innovation centre at Barrow Hill

Planning permission has been granted for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) – a modern rail innovation and training centre set to be located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

The new centre will provide workshop and classroom space to support specialist rail industry training, research and development facilities, and commercial space for rail-related businesses – bolstering Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector.

Estimated build costs for the centre stand at around £4 million, with funding provided through the Staveley Town Deal.

Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail (part of Newcastle University).

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It’s fantastic that our plans for DRIIVe have now been approved – the centre offers the opportunity to drive growth in the rail sector and help our residents access high-quality jobs. The development of DRIIVe is part of our Skills Action Plan that aims to help everyone benefit from economic growth but it also contributes of the ambitions of the Staveley Town Deal in ensuring that the town is a place where people can ‘Start, Stay and Grow’.”

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “Getting approval for these plans has been a long journey but will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry and ensure we can continue to preserve our local rail heritage. I look forward to finalising the plans and making a start on site.”

DRIIVe will include classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.

Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.

DRIIVe will create around 20 full time jobs and by year five it aims to support around 270 trainees, supporting local people to access highly skilled careers in the rail industry.

Mark Robinson, Professor of Rail Systems Engineering and Director of New Rail, said: “Newcastle University and Barrow Hill realised that there was a current and growing need for a railway research and innovation centre that specialised in rail freight. DRIIVe is the ideal one-stop solution providing purpose-built spaces for rail research and development activities and a broad base of rail related training. Ideally placed within the rail industry, DRIIVe will be a focus for rail freight innovation providing test equipment and facilities for engineers, the supply industry and associated commercial space for rail related businesses.”

Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to make a bid to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million.

As well as DRIIVe, the funding is being used to support ten projects in the area that aim to ensure the town is a place where people can ‘Start, Stay and Grow.’

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is a huge step for DRIIVe and for the Staveley Town Deal – seeing projects move through the planning process brings us closer to getting started on site and delivering the benefits of these projects for the residents of Staveley. I look forward to seeing DRIIVe develop further and meeting the residents and businesses who will benefit from the completed development.”

Early development and design costs were funded through the Staveley Town Deal Accelerator Fund.

Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal and the projects being funded through it, including DRIIVe, by visiting:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

Driive artists impression

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Chesterfield firms to find out more about East Midlands devolution plans at town’s largest annual business conference

Organisations in Chesterfield are invited to hear from the first mayoral candidates in the running for the new East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

The EMCCA will bring forward £1.14 billion of investment for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby City and Nottingham City over the next 30 years, unlocking economic growth and jobs, as well as significant funding and devolved powers for transport, skills and adult education, housing, the environment, and economic development.

Ahead of the mayoral election, which is set to take place on Thursday, 2 May 2024, businesses will have the chance to hear from Conservative candidate Ben Bradley, Labour’s Claire Ward, Green-Party’s Frank Adlington-Stringer and Independent Matthew Relf at the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference taking place this March.

In a conversation chaired by Chris Hobson, Director of Policy and Insight at East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire), candidates will outline their plans to boost our region’s economic growth, establish new relationships and broaden the pipeline for inward investment.

Now in its thirteenth year, Celebrate Chesterfield, which is organised by Destination Chesterfield and in association with System Q, has become a key date in the town’s events calendar, attracting more than 250 delegates each year.

In 2024, the event will highlight the big impact that small innovations have on the town’s economic growth, focusing on investment, regeneration, and entrepreneurial successes.

celebrate Chesterfield 2023 - delegates view presentation at the winding wheel

Delegates will also hear about the new Destination Chesterfield plan, which outlines partnership activities to further raise the profile of the town as a destination to invest, work, live and visit.

Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, commented: “We are very excited to be hosting mayoral candidates at the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference, and finding out more about their ambitions for the region. Our town has major plans for regeneration over the coming years, and our businesses are hopeful that the extra funding will provide a welcome boost by attracting further investment to Chesterfield.

“At our Chesterfield Champions event in January, we heard about some of the regeneration projects that could be supported by the EMCCA. We heard how the East Midlands Investment Zone will focus on advanced manufacturing and green industries, expected to support the creation of £383 million of private investment and help to create 4,200 jobs regionally. We also heard how funding is set to increase each year until 2026/2027.

“I would also encourage the business community to come along to find out how Destination Chesterfield plans to further collaborate with partners and businesses in the future, to continue supporting economic growth and regeneration across the borough.”

Mike Isherwood, Managing Director at System Q, commented: “We are proud to be the headline sponsor of Celebrate Chesterfield, a prestigious event that holds great significance to us. Chesterfield has been our cherished home for three decades. Our town boasts a thriving business and technology sector, which we believe deserves recognition and admiration. We think it’s a priority to showcase and celebrate the strengths of Chesterfield and we are honoured to support our community.

“As we continue to expand, we are seeking partners and talented individuals to join our team. Celebrate Chesterfield is a fantastic platform for local businesses to establish valuable partnerships, secure investments, and recruit top talent to drive our growth even further.”

As well as being in association with System Q, Celebrate Chesterfield is also supported by the University of Derby and Markham Vale.

This year, the event will also host the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Expo, featuring the East Midlands Chamber Business Support Zone and the Investment Zone (currently open for sponsorship). At 70% full already, businesses are encouraged to reserve a spot quickly to avoid missing out.

Delegates wishing to attend Celebrate Chesterfield can book their free place at the event here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/celebrate/

Celebrate Chesterfield business expo

 

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Affordable green homes now open in Clay Cross

A scheme of 11 new affordable-rent homes has been officially opened in Clay Cross.

At the opening, visitors from North East Derbyshire District Council visited the development to take a look at the new energy efficient homes which they helped to fund.

This gas-free development consists of 11 two bedroom houses and bungalows, all for affordable rent which will be managed by NCHA and let through NEDDC’s Rykneld Homes system.

The development, designed by Pelham Architects, is in keeping with the local built environment, building on the positive characteristics of the area to provide a responsive and sustainable residential scheme.

Funding from North East Derbyshire District Council has ensured that the housing meets an enhanced EPC A rating. With solar panels, under-floor heating, air-source heat pumps and high-end insulation, these homes will deliver both a low carbon footprint and help reduce energy costs for the new residents.

Claudine Edwards, New Business and Development Manager for NCHA commented: “It’s fantastic to visit the site and take a look around these new homes.

“As part of NCHA’s commitment to developing environmentally sustainable homes and communities, this gas-free site is full of green energy solutions and will offer lower energy costs for the new residents.” She went on to thank partners in the build, Modus Partnerships for “their work in helping us to bring our vision to reality.”

The new homes are fully occupied and a new community is beginning to take shape.

North East Derbyshire District Council Leader, Cllr Nigel Barker said; “We are really proud to have been able to contribute to this innovative and exciting new housing development in partnership with NCHA.

“The 11 new affordable homes for rent are highly efficient, helping to lower the energy bills for the families who will call these properties home.

“We have committed in our Council Plan to building more affordable homes for rent across the district and developments such as this one with NCHA is exactly what the district needs.”

The development, costing around £2.3m, was funded by NCHA, Homes England and NEDDC. The homes contribute towards NCHA’s Strategic Partnership with Homes England to deliver new, affordable homes across the East Midlands and East of England.

Simon Preston, Director, Modus Partnerships said: “We’re delighted to have worked in partnership with NCHA and NEDDC to deliver these high-quality homes in an area of much needed demand. Pelham Architects provided us with an excellent design service that allowed us to meet the aspirations of a high energy efficient scheme.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield.

 

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New menu including ‘doggy dishes’ launched by Chesterfield town centre café

A brand-new menu offering something for everyone, including vegans and even furry friends has been launched at Qoozies in Chesterfield town centre.

Qoozies, based at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in the heart of the town, is starting the new year with brand new management, which has seen the introduction of their fully revamped all-day breakfast, lunch, pancake and vegan menus.

The refreshed menu includes everything from modern brunch classics and indulgently loaded pancake burritos, to warm salad bowls, toasted sandwiches and unique Qoozie Burgers, which offer a variety of fillings sandwiched between two housemade spinach fritters.

Qoozies prides itself on preparing many of its favourites from scratch, including classic pancakes, irresistible sweet potato hash browns and unique fritters. All bread and pastries are now supplied directly from the local 4 Eyes Bakery, with Qoozies also stocking loaves of the Staveley-based bakery for customers to purchase in store.

Qoozies additionally offers a huge range of drink options, freshly prepared and using fresh ingredients. Their menu ranges from vitamin-packed smoothies and creamy milkshakes, to hot chocolates and freshly pressed juices – all with vegan options available across the board.

Customers of a furrier variety are also catered for, with the addition of Qoozies’ new doggy dishes. The first-of-its-kind menu at Qoozies offers scrambled eggs, pup pancakes, roast chicken dinners and pooch-friendly ice cream, each served in a dog bowl to suit a more canine appetite.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane says: ‘’Qoozies’ new menu is going to be a treat for visitors at Vicar Lane. We’re delighted to welcome the new management team to the centre and wish them every success”.

Kate Capuano, Part-Owner at Qoozies says: “We are so excited to have launched our new menu at Qoozies. We’ve added so much more choice for all tastes, with a focus on flavour and delicious ingredients. All the feedback we’ve received so far has been fantastic – we look forward to welcoming new and existing customers to try our new dishes!”

Situated on Steeplegate at Vicar Lane, Chesterfield, Qoozies is open Monday – Saturday 9am-4pm. For more details about what else is on offer at Vicar Lane please visit vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk.

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield and plan your day out here.

Vicar Lane supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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